2009 Citroen Xsara vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 2009 Citroen Xsara is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP) has 125 more horse power than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2009 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen Xsara, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 194 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen Xsara | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Citroen | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Xsara | 420 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 219 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 329 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
